Let’s take a moment to set the record straight. When I mention that I attend church or speak of my faith, I can almost predict the questions swirling in your mind. You may be wondering if I align with the religious right, the vocal minority that has taken control of the narrative surrounding spirituality, transforming it into a rigid political agenda rather than a personal journey.
Rest assured, I am indeed a person of faith, but I do not resonate with their views—not even slightly. Those who attempt to legislate their beliefs while disregarding the beliefs of others do not represent me. Those who insist on the “one true God” while dismissing countless other deities and beliefs do not speak for me. The individuals who twist religious texts to impose judgment and undermine the rights of others are not my voice.
I identify as a person of faith, but my beliefs are broad and inclusive. I can be a seeker, a humanist, and sometimes even a spiritual individual who believes in a higher power—whether that’s a capital G God or a lowercase g god. My understanding of the divine reflects the beauty of nature and the joy found in everyday moments, like the glimmer of sunlight dancing on waves or the laughter of children. I champion the rights of all faiths and will ardently defend the right for anyone to practice their beliefs, even if I disagree with them, as long as it doesn’t infringe upon the rights of others. I look to figures like Jesus, Buddha, and Gandhi for inspiration, advocating for kindness above all else.
The faith-driven individuals who hide behind scientific ignorance, propagate alternative facts, and view matters of equality solely in black and white are not my representatives. Those who preach loudly, yet commit acts of injustice, do not embody the values I hold dear. I reject the notion that salvation is exclusive to those who conform to a specific mold in thought, appearance, or belief.
My faith embraces the complexities of different perspectives and lifestyles. It’s about creating a better world right here and now, emphasizing actions over mere beliefs. It acknowledges that we are already whole, whether we feel the need for saving or not.
I stand firm in my beliefs, but those who seek to impose their religious views on others—who think love is limited to certain definitions or who wish to intertwine prayer with education and governance—do not represent me. I cannot align with those who turn their backs on the oppressed and marginalized, who prioritize profit over environmental stewardship, or who exploit resources while ignoring the struggles of indigenous peoples.
My faith advocates for the protection of our planet, cherishing the earth we inhabit. It champions equality over profit, connection over division, and forgiveness over retaliation. I believe in the potential for humanity to care for one another, recognizing that we all deserve basic human rights, including clean drinking water and the preservation of sacred lands.
Those who wield their religion as a weapon of shame or judgment, who legislate against entire communities, do not speak for me. I am a person of faith who values the inherent worth and dignity of every individual. I stand for justice, equity, and compassion for all, from the individual grappling with a life-altering decision in a hospital to those facing the death penalty. My belief is simple: love is love, and truth is worth pursuing. Science is real and vital.
The individuals who seek to restrict access to reproductive health while cutting social support programs do not represent my values. Those who wish to build walls, ignoring our shared humanity, do not stand for me. I cannot support those who shame the vulnerable while being silent about their own contradictions.
I am a person of faith, but the religious right does not embody my beliefs. They never will.
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In summary, I am a proud person of faith who believes in love, justice, and the value of every individual. I reject the narrow views of the religious right and embrace a more inclusive, compassionate faith.